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Bill

H 298

An Act to promote school centered neighborhood development

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Tony Cabral and 4 co-sponsors

Massachusetts bill streamlines zoning around schools to encourage mixed-use neighborhood development, potentially increasing housing but raising local control and gentrification concerns.

Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on House Ways and Means
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Bill Summary · H 298

Legislative bill overview

H 298 aims to facilitate mixed-use neighborhood development centered around schools in Massachusetts by streamlining zoning and permitting processes. The bill would allow communities to create special districts or overlay zones that permit residential, commercial, and civic uses in proximity to schools while reducing regulatory barriers to development.

Why is this important

School-centered development can increase housing supply near transit and existing infrastructure, potentially making communities more walkable and reducing sprawl. It also addresses workforce housing shortages and may improve school funding through property tax revenue while reducing car dependency for school-related trips.

Potential points of contention

  • Local control vs. state mandates: Towns may resist state-level requirements to zone near schools, arguing this infringes on local zoning authority and community character preferences
  • Gentrification and displacement: Increased development around schools could raise property values and rents, displacing existing low-income residents and changing neighborhood demographics
  • School capacity and services: Rapid residential growth near schools may outpace infrastructure improvements, straining school systems, parking, traffic, and municipal services without adequate planning or funding mechanisms

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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